Bachelor of Social Science
The University of Newcastle
CRICOS provider number: 00109J TEQSA provider ID: PRV12056
Courses included
This course has been cancelled
About
Social Science is the study of social systems, institutions, and cultures. This degree will equip you to understand and analyse the social dynamics of the world around you, and develop practical solutions to create positive change.
You will learn to analyse and address key social issues and inequalities, using practical strategies and methods to propose evidence-based solutions that can create better outcomes for all.
This program allows you to pursue your interests by choosing from a diverse range of majors. You will graduate work ready, with the skills and knowledge you need to pursue a rewarding career.
Areas of study
Criminology, global Indigenous studies, history, human geography and the environment, human resource management and industrial relations, human services, linguistics, politics and international relations, psychology studies, sociology and anthropology, tourism and event management.
Note: Not all majors are available on both campuses and are subject to change. Many courses are available online and some courses are delivered from the Newcastle City campus.
Career opportunities
Career paths include research and education fields, public health, welfare and wellbeing subjects, environmental advocacy and community organising, community and family services management, and disability, aged care, indigenous and youth sectors.
Common areas of employment include government and policy departments (local, state and federal), higher education, and non government organisations and agencies.
Practical experience
You will gain practical social science skills in analysis and communication, policy, and research. You will complete a minimum 140-hour placement within the later stages of your studies. There will be a variety of opportunities available to acquire a placement in your desired career field. This includes local, state and commonwealth public service, non-government organisations, higher education, cultural and environmental organisations, and community and family services.
Honours
Available as an additional year (or part-time equivalent) to students based on merit.
Fees and charges
Admission criteria
Applicants with recent secondary education
Recommended studies: English Advanced. For Psychology studies major: Mathematics Advanced. Other related subjects, such as Geography, History Extension, Community and Family Studies, and Society and Culture are recommended depending on the intended major.
If you have not previously studied one or more of these subjects or have limited knowledge in them, we strongly encourage you to consider enrolling in bridging courses. NUPrep Bridging provides free academic preparation and support short courses, available both on campus and online, to complete before starting your degree.
Explore NUPrep Bridging Courses
Applicants with higher education study
If you have completed or partially completed higher education studies, your grade point average can be converted into a selection rank for admission into our undergraduate programs.
Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study
If you completed or partially completed competency-based vocational education and training (such as TAFE, a private Registered Training Provider, or vocational studies undertaken in high school), this can be used to determine your eligibility for admission.
Completion of studies at an AQF Level 4 (Cert IV) or higher Guarantees Entry into many of our undergraduate programs.
Review the Guaranteed Entry Admission Scheme.
Applicants with work and life experience
If you do not have an ATAR (or equivalent) or formal qualification, Newcastle University offers a range of pathways toward your preferred degree. No matter what your age or experience, there is a place for you.
Advanced standing
If you have completed prior studies at another higher education institution or registered training organisation, you may be eligible to receive credit towards your undergraduate degree. Please note that you must apply for admission before applying for credit.
Further information
View all details of this course on the University of Newcastle website.
University of Newcastle degrees
The academic content of all programs is subject to routine review.
ATAR profile
ATAR-based offers only (semester 1, 2023)
Use all ATAR profile data as a guide only; it provides a broad overview of the ATARs and selection ranks of previous Year 12 students admitted into that course. ATARs and selection ranks required for entry in 2024 may be different. If you are unsure about including a course among your preferences, contact the relevant institution.
- This ATAR profile table is in line with Commonwealth Government transparency requirements. It is based on offers to recent school leavers (ie completed Year 12 in the last 2 years) who were selected solely or partly on their ATAR. Note that some institutions further differentiate this information on their websites.
- The ATAR values exclude any adjustment factors.
- The selection ranks include the ATAR and any adjustment factors.
Abbreviations
– = data is not available.<5 = less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made.
N/A = no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
NC = new course
NP = Not provided by institution
NR = No reportable profile
NS = No Semester 1 offers
NN = Unavailable (other)
NO = Entry on other criteria
Student profile
Course updates
Courses are added and cancelled throughout the admissions year and course details are subject to change. Check the UAC course search regularly.
Review of programs
The academic content of all programs is subject to routine review. For up-to-date details, visit University of Newcastle degrees.
Honours
Applicants should note that under the revised Australian Qualifications Framework some programs are four-year programs available with direct entry. Other programs are three-year Bachelor degree programs. Meritorious students have the option to apply forto apply for an additional one-year end-on honours component after graduation. Check the course descriptions carefully.